What repels yellow jackets from stinging you?

What repels yellow jackets from stinging you includes preventive measures, strong smells, protective clothing, and behavior that reduces provocation, though no repellent guarantees no stings and professional nest removal is best for nests near homes. Preventive repellents include strong smells like peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, citronella, clove oil, and lemongrass oil that can be diluted and sprayed around clothing and outdoor areas, though evidence limited and oils evaporate quickly requiring reapplication and should be used carefully around pets, especially cats. Commercial insect repellents containing DEET may provide some repellency but not specifically labeled for yellow jackets and effectiveness varies. Wearing light colored clothing repels yellow jackets as they are attracted to dark colors that resemble predators, and avoiding bright floral patterns and strong perfumes that attract them reduces stings. Covering food and sweet drinks outdoors repels yellow jackets from approaching you, as they seek sugars and proteins, and sealing trash cans reduces attraction. Behavior repels stings, move slowly near yellow jackets, do not swat or flail as this provokes stings and spreads alarm pheromone that attracts more yellow jackets, and if yellow jacket lands on you, stay calm and gently brush it away. Using fake yellow jacket nests may deter new colonies that are territorial. For nests near home, professional removal repels colony permanently. If you have known allergy, carrying epinephrine auto injector is essential protection.